Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness and Prevention


Emergency Preparedness and Prevention

Introduction

Preparedness and Prevention Plans are required for large quantity hazardous waste generators (LQGs) by Federal (40 CFR 264.30-56) environmental regulations. Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) requires these plans for both LQGs and small quantity generators (SQGs). The Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) is categorized as a Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG).

The following plan was developed to be consistent with these requirements as they apply to the hazardous waste generation at TMCC.

Design and Facility Operations

Bulk aqueous liquids, spent batteries, ballast and used light bulbs, and other waste chemicals are stored before shipping in the hazardous waste storage area located in the Red Mountain Building, north facing side, room 142. This room is at ground level, is earthen floored, and contains a fireproof locker, a storage locker, and secondary containment enabled platforms (see Appendix A for floor plan). Fire suppression is available via a fire extinguisher mounted just outside the door to the facility, as well as one in the waste storage room. Water is accessible via hose bib at the end of loading dock ramp.

Universal wastes such as spent emergency lighting batteries, spent fluorescent lighting, and paint waste is stored in the Universal Waste Shed located in the Facilities Services Grounds and Vehicle Maintenance yard.

To maintain good housekeeping, chemical wastes generated in classrooms are transported to the waste storage area regularly. Within the waste accumulation room, wastes are segregated according to hazard class. 

The facility is accessible only to the Environmental Health and Safety personnel and Facilities Operations personnel who are trained in universal waste regulations. Others who require access for any reason must contact EHS.

The accumulated wastes are inspected at least weekly by the EHS Office. Logs for inspections are located in the EHS Office and are maintained for a minimum of three years.

Required Equipment

  • Internal/External Communications and Alarms
    • Mobile phone for use as an emergency telephone.
  • External Communications and Alarms
    • Mobile phone for use as an emergency telephone. Additional telephones are available in the Red Mountain Building.
    • Wall telephone located within 35 yards mounted to the wall near the bus shelter.
    • Fire alarm pull stations located inside doors of loading dock in the Red Mountain Building. These will activate the building audible alarm.
  • Portable Fire Extinguishers
    • 10 lb. portable dry chemical fire extinguisher (Class ABC) is located outside the storage room door.
    • 20 lb. portable dry chemical fire extinguisher (Class ABC) is located inside the storage room.
  • Fire Hydrants/Systems
    • Nearest City fire hydrant is located within 35 yards of the facility.
    • City water systems are routinely used/periodically tested (by EHS and/or Facilities) for adequate volume and pressure. The Reno Fire Department (RFD) periodically flushes hydrants.
    • Response to a major fire will come from RFD.
  • PPE (storage room is equipped with safety equipment for the protection of employees):
    • Full-face safety shield
    • Chemical resistant gloves
    • Chemical resistant lab coat (Tyvek or equivalent)
    • Eye wash station/bottles
    • First aid kits are available at the University Police Department, TMCC Substation and in Facilities Services.
    • AED is located in University Police Department, TMCC Substation and various locations throughout campus.
    • Roll-up door can provide additional ventilation.
    • Spill control equipment includes spill absorbent materials and specialized absorbing/neutralizing kits.
    • Containers are available for spill residue. Bio-hazardous waste bags are available for spill cleanup materials.
    • Equipment and/or facility decontamination will be performed using existing water supply and spill control equipment, or by proper disposal and replacement, as directed by the EHS Office or responding HAZMAT/HAZWOPER trained personnel.